Share the blessings of our community!

By: Seventy Mary Jean Belrose Canada East Mission Centre Co-President

Inviting someone into a sacred space can be daunting, especially when you’re unsure how they will respond. Yet, sometimes the simplest invitation can lead to the most profound experiences.
I recently invited some friends to an event held at Ziontario. Neither of them had been there before and so, had no idea what to expect. I prepared them for how long it would take us to get there, how long we would be staying, and what would be taking place. One of the ladies, who belongs to a denomination steeped in tradition, was used to a predictable worship experience. The unfamiliarity of our community's practices added an element of uncertainty for her. The other had a very negative church experience as a child. Ever since, she has been extremely suspicious about church and until recently, couldn’t bring herself to even darken the door of any religious structure.

The one part of the day that was of interest to either of them was in the afternoon. But it was flanked on one end by a baptismal service and on the other by a confirmation service. I wasn’t sure just how comfortable either of them would be with those “churchy” events.

On the way home at the end of the day, both stressed that it was a very enjoyable day. One had felt a deep emotional experience when we first arrived, even before she had stepped out of the car. Although the other lady was in intense pain by day’s end, she expressed adamantly that she had thoroughly enjoyed the time. Hearing them express their joy at the end of the day was a reminder to me of the beauty and power of our community—a reminder that despite our fears, inviting others in can be a true gift.

Hesitations Abound but Blessings Await

Their positive responses reminded me of something crucial: despite our fears and hesitations, there is immense beauty and power in extending an invitation. Yet, I know many of us in the Community of Christ struggle with this. Many of us hesitate to invite others, fearing they won't be interested. In today’s world, church can evoke mistrust, judgment, and memories of strict beliefs or even abuse. We might dread being asked questions we can’t answer or worry about the sting of rejection.

But what if they said 'yes'? What if your invitation opened the door to a life-changing experience? What if this sacred community provided the blessings that they have been longing for their entire life? What if they were impressed with our bold mission initiatives and felt a strong connection to our enduring principles? What if they were inspired by our public ministries and the people who exhibit unconditional love and abundant generosity? What if their weary, fragile faith was renewed, rekindled? A community infused with Christ’s peace brings the gospel to life and provides the potential for people to become vulnerable to God’s grace.

The possibility that they will turn down the invitation for any of a hundred different reasons is very real. Hearing “no” will not kill us. No is not something that we ought to take personally. Perhaps it’s just not the right time. Maybe it never will be the right time. But we won’t know if we never offer. Extending an invitation is a leap of faith. It’s trusting that what we hold dear can touch the heart of someone else, even when they’ve been hurt before or are wary of what lies beyond the doors of a church.

Consider Your Opportunities

Start with small steps—invite a friend to a social event or Sunday worship. Family camps, with their laughter, singing, and living out Christ’s principles, are perfect opportunities to share the warmth of our community. Start thinking now about who you might invite next year.

Our goal isn’t to push baptism or membership. That ought to be a decision left up to them. There are many who are searching for a sacred community such as we have. Many have given up hope of ever finding such a place. In a world where loneliness is an epidemic, our Christ-centered community is a gift worth sharing. We’ve inherited something special—a Christ-centered community built by those with a vision of peace and hope. In a world where loneliness is an epidemic, this is a gift worth sharing.

“Lovingly invite others to experience the good news of new life in community with Christ. Opportunities abound in your daily lives if you choose to see them.” –Doctrine and Covenants 165:1c"